National Register Frequently Asked Questions
Below are a series of questions that we often receive about the National Register of Historic Places and the application process. The National Park Service processes all National Register nominations for the nation. As an applicant, please keep in mind that any one of these issues could cause rejection of your application.
- I have never applied to the National Register and am unsure how to complete the application. What should I do?
The purpose of the enclosed packet is to direct you through the application and answer questions that may arise. Please follow the instructions in "How to Complete the National Register Registration Form" carefully. There are special inserts pertaining specifically to the architectural description and photography. If you have additional questions you may contact the DHPA.
- Why are color photos not acceptable for my National Register application?
Many commercial photo labs offer processing of newer black and white film types, which permit images to be printed on some standard color processing print papers. Fuji, AGFA Prestige, Kodak Royal, and Kodak Professional papers are examples of color paper. However, Kodak Professional is also available in a black and white paper. The prints may appear to be true black and white photos, but they lack the stability and archival qualities of true black and white prints. Some color papers are labeled as such on the back. A photo lab often can identify color process papers. BE SURE TO SPECIFY TO YOUR PROCESSOR THAT YOU MUST HAVE TRUE BLACK AND WHITE PHOTOS, WITH A BORDER OF AT LEAST 1/4", PRINTED ON TRUE BLACK AND WHITE PHOTOGRAPHIC PAPER USING TRUE BLACK AND WHITE PROCESSING.
- How should I label my black and white photos?
Photographs should be labeled with at least the property name, county, and state. Use pencil and mark lightly on the back (a #1 pencil or soft-graphite artist’s pencil works best). You may also use a permanent photo marking pen or pencil; Pilot, Sharpie and other manufacturers make appropriate pens. See the photo instructions in “How To Complete the National Register Registration Form,” for more information. If the labeling does not meet the requirements, you will need to replace them.
- I have a digital camera. Can I submit digital images with my application?
No. We cannot accept ink jet or laser printed black and white images in place of true black and white photography. Computer-printed images are not of archival quality and, therefore, do not meet National Register requirements. However, when presenting an historic photographic image as secondary or incidental documentation, use of color copies or scanned images is acceptable. See the revised photo guidelines for specific formatting requirements for digital photographs here.
- Can I submit a digital or color copy of a USGS map?
No. You are required to include a USGS Quad map with your nomination package. Recent technology allows computer desktop generation of portions of these maps. However, the Park Service requires a full, pre-printed Quad map, both to be consistent with existing nominations in their keep, and for archival purposes. Be sure to mark the location of your site IN PENCIL ONLY.
The State of Indiana has one of the highest acceptance rates in the nation for National Register nominations. Thank you for helping us maintain this standard.
Other National Register Resources
- Application Packet for the National Register
- Properties on the National and State Register
- Properties on the State Register only
